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Just because you have a computer part you aren’t using doesn’t mean it needs to be thrown away or put in the trash can! There are plenty of other ways to store and organize unused computer parts to be safe and still usable.
Whether you’re cleaning up your computer desk or taking stock of the various parts that have accumulated in your garage, knowing how to store and organize computer parts can save you time and energy down the road.
Storing your computer parts properly can keep them from getting lost or damaged, making your life easier when you need to dig through your computer equipment supply. Keep reading to learn how to store and organize unused computer parts!
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How To Store 9 Various Unused Computer Parts
Unused computer parts may seem like they’re hard to store and organize, but with the proper storage solution and organization plan, you can keep them neatly tucked away in your home or office, so they’re ready to use when you need them again.
These tips on storing and organizing unused computer parts will help you clean up your space and ensure you never lose track of your equipment again.
1. Peripherals
If you’ve recently upgraded your computer, you may have a box full of old PC peripherals taking up space in your home. While it may be tempting just to throw them all away, there are a few things you can do with them.
To ensure that your old PC mouse will still work even after a long time, you should store it in a cool and dry place. Furthermore, you should keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You should also avoid storing it in an airtight container, which could lead to moisture buildup.
You should purchase a keyboard case or cover when deciding to store a keyboard. Place the keyboard in the case or cover and store the keyboard in a cool, dry place. Remember to check on the keyboard periodically to ensure it is working correctly.
2. RAM Sticks
If you have extra RAM sticks, you might wonder how to store them properly. The best way to store RAM is in an anti-static bag. These bags are designed to protect electronic components from static electricity, which can damage sensitive parts.
If you don’t have an anti-static bag, you can use a zip-top baggie or wrap the RAM in aluminum foil. Place the RAM in a cool, dry place where it won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture.
3. SSD and HDD
SSDs are sensitive to static electricity and can be damaged by it. You should store them in an anti-static bag until you’re ready to use them. Ground yourself before handling the drive when you’re ready to install the SSD. Once the SSD is installed, keep it in a cool, dry place. If you’re not using an SSD, don’t store it in a hot environment like an attic or a car trunk.
Hard disk drives (HDDs) are one of the most essential parts of a computer. They store all of your data, so keeping them in good condition is vital. Here are some tips on how to store HDD properly:
- Keep them in a cool, dry place.
- Do not expose them to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
- Do not put them in an area with high humidity levels.
- If you’re storing multiple HDDs, keep them in different locations.
- Label each HDD so you know what’s on it and when it was stored.
- Ensure each HDD is in an anti-static bag or wrapped in anti-static material.
4. DVD/CD Drives
If you have an unused computer part lying around, such as a DVD or CD drive, you’ll want to ensure it’s stored properly, so it doesn’t get damaged. Here’s how:
- Get a storage box that’s big enough for the drive and any cables with it.
- Put the drive in the box and surround it with packing material, such as foam peanuts or bubble wrap.
- Seal the box with tape, making sure all sides are sealed securely.
- Label the box with the contents and date of storage.
- Store the box in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
5. Motherboards
When it comes to storing and organizing a motherboard, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure the motherboard is in an anti-static bag. This will protect the motherboard from electrostatic discharge (ESD), damaging sensitive components. You should also store the motherboard in a dry, dust-free environment. A cool, dark place is ideal.
Once the motherboard is stored safely, you must ensure it’s properly organized. Keep all the screws and standoffs that came with the motherboard in a small bag or container. This will prevent you from losing them.
You should also label all the cables and connectors that go to the motherboard. This will make it easier to reconnect everything when you’re ready to install the motherboard on your PC. Following these simple tips will help you keep your motherboard safe and secure.
6. Graphics Card
The best way to store a graphics card is by putting it in an anti-static bag. This will help protect the card from dust and other particles that could damage it. You should also put the bag in a cool, dry place to prevent the card from overheating.
If you have multiple cards, you can stack them on top of each other or put them in a box. Just make sure that the cards are not touching each other so that they don’t short circuit.
If you have the original packaging, store the card in that. Otherwise, find a big box to fit the card snugly. Fill any space in the box with packing material like bubble wrap or Styrofoam peanuts to prevent the card from moving around.
7. Cables and Wires
To avoid having a jumbled mess of cables and wires, it is crucial to take some precautions when storing them. Here are five tips on how to organize your PC cables and wires:
- Keep them in a dry place.
- Do not store them in an area where there is high humidity.
- Store them in a well-ventilated area.
- Make sure the containers you use to store them are clean and free of dust.
- Inspect the cables and wires regularly for signs of damage or wear and tear.
8. LCD/LED Monitors
An LCD or LED monitor can be a great addition to your computer setup, but it’s essential to know how to store it properly when you’re not using it. If you don’t store your monitor correctly, it can be damaged by dust, moisture, or even insects.
Here are a few tips on how to store your LCD or LED monitor:
- Wrap the monitor in a clean, soft cloth before storing it. This will protect the screen from scratches.
- Place the monitor in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Avoid storing the monitor in direct sunlight or near a heat source.
- If possible, store the monitor in its original packaging.
9. Screws
A magnetic screw tray is one of the best ways to organize small parts like PC screws. This is because the magnet will keep all the screws in one place, making them easy to find when needed. Plus, the tray can be easily stored in a drawer or on a shelf.
A screw organizer is a small, inexpensive tool that can make a big difference in how you store your screws. By keeping them sorted by size and type, you’ll always know where to find the right screw when needed. Plus, it’ll save you time and frustration when you’re trying to build or repair something.
4 Tips to Protect Your PC Components During Long-Term Storage
1. Always Store Components in Original Manufacturer’s Packaging
The original manufacturer’s packaging protects your components from electrostatic discharge. ESD can damage electronic components, so it’s essential to take measures to protect your investment.
In addition, many component manufacturers have warranty programs that require you to keep the original packaging. If you don’t have the original packaging, you may be unable to take advantage of these programs. Furthermore, storing components in their original packaging helps you stay organized and makes it easier to find what you need when you need it.
2. If You Don’t Have the Original, Purchase Proper Packaging
If you don’t have the original packaging, purchase proper packaging to ensure that your PC’s components are protected during storage. Invest in a storage container that is designed for PC components. These containers typically have foam padding that helps prevent the components from shifting during transport.
Once you have the proper packaging, clean your components and ensure they are free of dirt or debris. Then, label each component, so you will remember which one goes where when you are ready to reassemble your PC.
3. Take Extra Care With LCD Screens and Monitors
When using LCD screens and monitors, it is vital to take extra care to avoid damage. LCD screens are made of delicate materials that can be easily damaged if not handled properly. Avoid pressing too hard on the screen. This can cause the delicate materials to become distorted and damaged.
Also, do not place anything heavy on top of the screen. This can cause the screen to become cracked or broken. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.
4. Organize Cables and Learn Proper Wire Management
Wires are one of the unruliest aspects of any desk. They get tangled, fall behind the desk, and are a pain to deal with. But with a little bit of organization, you can make your desk much more functional – and much less cluttered.
- Get some Velcro strips and put them at the back of your desk. You should be able to cut these in half and use them as dividers to help organize your cables so that they don’t overlap with each other.
- Use binder clips or cable ties to keep bundled cables together. If you have some old ribbon (maybe from an office party), tie it around the bundle and use binder clips or cable ties as needed.
- It’s also possible to buy some industrial-strength cable ties from an office supply store if you don’t want to risk damaging ribbon in this way. These will work better for thicker bundles of cables or when the cord needs extra stability.
What Parts of a Computer Should You Never Touch?
You should never touch three parts of a computer: the power supply, the motherboard, and the CPU. Many parts of a computer are safe for users to interact with. However, several parts of a computer can also be dangerous to touch.
The power supply is responsible for supplying electricity to all the other computer parts, and it can be very dangerous to touch. The motherboard is the main circuit board of the computer, and it is also susceptible. The CPU is the central processing unit of the computer, and it is also very fragile. Touching any of these parts can damage the computer.
The monitor is also one of the most sensitive parts of a computer, and it can be easily damaged if you’re not careful. If you need to clean your monitor, use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as these can damage the screen.
6 Computer Hardware Safety Tips for Disassembling and Assembling
1. Read the User Manual First
Most people don’t think about safety when it comes to computer hardware. But you should take some basic safety measures when disassembling or assembling your computer. First, always consult the user manual that came with your computer. This will give you specific instructions on safely handling your computer’s components.
2. Wear Protective Equipment and Get the Right Tools
Always wear the proper protective equipment, such as gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask. Before working with a computer, gather all the tools you’ll need so you don’t have to search for them in the middle of the project. It’s always best to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful dust particles.
3. Properly Discharge Your PC and Beware of ESD
Maybe you’re building a new system from scratch, or perhaps you’re just swapping out a few parts. Either way, you need to know how to discharge your PC before working on it. This helps prevent electrostatic discharge. ESD can still occur even when the power is off, so take precautions accordingly.
4. Never Force Components
If you’ve ever had to disassemble a computer, you know that some parts are easier to remove than others. The same is true when reassembling your machine. While it may be tempting to muscle a component into place, doing so can damage the part or the socket it plugs into. If a component doesn’t seem to fit, check for obstructions or properly align the part before trying again.
5. Don’t Mishandle PC Components.
Just like any other tool, mishandling computer parts can lead to damage. If you’re not careful with your GPU or RAM, you can easily break them. Plus, they can get dusty and malfunction if you don’t store them properly. Make sure you’re handling the components gently. They’re delicate and can easily be damaged if you’re not careful.
6. Give Yourself Enough Room to Move Around
When you’re ready to start taking your PC apart, ensure you have enough room to work. You’ll need to quickly spread out all the parts to identify them later. A dining room table or large desk is ideal. If you don’t have that much space, clear off a smaller surface like a coffee table. Just be sure you can move around comfortably and have enough light to see what you’re doing.
How Long Can You Store Computer Parts Before They Become Obsolete?
Generally speaking, computer parts have a lifespan of around 5-7 years before they become outdated. However, some parts, such as hard drives and memory, can last much longer. The answer varies depending on the hardware type and technological advancement rate.
As technology advances, outdated computer parts become obsolete at an ever-increasing rate. This can be frustrating for businesses and individuals who have invested in costly computer hardware only to find that it is no longer used a few years later.
While it can be tempting to hold onto outdated computer parts in the hope that they will become usable again one day, it is generally not worth the effort. The best course of action is to keep up with the latest technology trends and invest in new parts as they become available.
Do Macs Last Longer than PCs?
It is difficult to say definitively whether Macs or PCs last longer. It depends on several factors, including how often you use your computer and how well you take care of it. That said, many people find that Macs tend to last longer than PCs and are indeed more user-friendly.
For years, there has been a debate over which type of computer is better: Macs or PCs. While both pros and cons exist, many people swear by Macs, claiming that they last longer and are more user-friendly than PCs.
With proper care, both MACs and PCs can last for many years. So, there is no definitive answer to the question of whether MACs or PCs last longer. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual needs.
The Bottom Line
Even if you don’t consider yourself a techie, chances are you have at least a few unused computer parts taking up space in your home. If you’re unsure what to do with them, we’ve provided a few tips for storing and organizing your unused computer parts.